From staff reports
The University is sending students participating in the Duke in the Andes program home after Indian protesters in La Paz, Bolivia, vowed to continue their demonstrations against free trade with the United States (see story, page 2).
The decision impacts about seven Duke and eight non-Duke students.
Junior Jessica West, a program participant and Chronicle photographer, sent a letter to President Nan Keohane and other officials, asking them to re-evaluate the decision.
"In the spirit of La Paz, this is my vain attempt at a protest of the cancellation of the Duke in the Andes study abroad program," West writes. "Currently our group is in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, and enjoying the warmth and security of this major city, away from the protests in La Paz."
The open letter is re-printed in its entirety on page 22.
"Naturally we're all disappointed and trying--in vain--to stall for more time in the hopes the political situation clears up," West said.
Keohane and other University officials could not be reached for comment.
The Chronicle will provide complete coverage Monday.
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